Automated valve, fire sprinkler assembly and fire sprinkler

Abstract

An automated valve comprising a valve member adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the valve member having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to a water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to a fire sprinkler, an actuator to move the valve member between the positions, a valve fluid inlet to receive fluid from a water supply line, a valve fluid outlet for egress of fluid to the water supply and a fire sprinkler outlet for egress of fluid to the fire sprinkler. Also described is an electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, a method of manufacturing an electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, a system for electronically activating one or more fire sprinkler assembly, a kit comprising one or more electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly and one or more fire detectors and a fire sprinkler.

Description

AUTOMATED VALVE, FIRE SPRINKLER ASSEMBLY AND FIRE SPRINKLER FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated valve for a fire sprinkler and a fire sprinkler assembly comprising the automated valve directing domestic water supply to either the fire sprinkler or to domestic plumbing fixtures. More particularly, in one embodiment, this invention relates to an automated valve and a fire sprinkler assembly comprising an actuator to move the automated valve between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position. The present invention also relates to a fire sprinkler body adapted to transition between a non-operative configuration when there is no fluid exiting the outlet and an operative configuration when there is fluid exiting the outlet.BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] Fire sprinklers are designed to distribute an extinguishing fluid, such as water, throughout a building as widely as possible. Typically, modern sprinklers are completely passive and self-activating devices. Conventional sprinklers employ a heat sensitive element that will automatically eject a seal to release the extinguishing agent when the desired activation temperature is reached. The most common type of heat sensing element used in modem sprinklers is the glass bulb. The glass bulb is filled with a liquid that will expand with heat. The expanding fluid raises the pressure of the sealed volume of fluid inside the bulb until eventually the glass bulb explodes, in turn ejecting the sprinkler’s seal and releasing extinguishing agent from the piping system. The activation of sprinklers almost always results in activation of automatic alarm generating devices, which sense flow and or pressure change in the sprinkler piping system.

[0003] Alternative fire sprinklers are desired.

[0004] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[0005] To date, various attempts have been made to incorporate the above listed dual activated bulbs into sprinkler systems.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Generally, embodiments of the present invention relate to an automated valve for a fire sprinkler and a fire sprinkler assembly comprising the automated valve.

[0007] Generally, embodiments of the present invention also relate to fire sprinkler body adapted to transition between a non-operative configuration when there is no fluid exiting the outlet and an operative configuration when there is fluid exiting the outlet.

[0008] In a broad form, this invention relates to an automated valve and a sprinkler assembly comprising the automated valve, having an input to receive a signal from a fire detector to direct fluid to a domestic water supply or to a fire sprinkler.

[0009] In another broad form, this invention relates to sprinkler body adapted to transition between a non-operative configuration when there is no fluid exiting the outlet and an operative configuration when there is fluid exiting the outlet and a plug is ejected by fluid exiting the outlet.

[0010] With respect to some embodiments, the invention, advantageously incurs low, or no extra, friction loss of the water supply. Another advantage is that water supply to plumbing fixtures may be stopped when the electronically activated fire sprinkler is activated.

[0011] In a first aspect, although it need not be the only or indeed the broadest aspect, the invention provides an automated valve comprising:a valve member adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the valve member having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to a water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to a fire sprinkler;an actuator to move the valve member between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position;a valve fluid inlet to receive fluid from a water supply line;a valve fluid outlet for egress of fluid to the water supply; anda fire sprinkler outlet for egress of fluid to the fire sprinkler.

[0012] In a second aspect, the invention provides a fire sprinkler assembly comprising: a fire sprinkler,an automated valve adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the automated valve having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to the water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to the fire sprinkler;an electronic actuator to move the valve between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position; anda conduit to carry fluid from the valve to the fire sprinkler.

[0013] A third aspect, the invention provides, a method of manufacturing an electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, the method comprisingproviding a fire sprinkler,supplying an automated valve adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the automated valve having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to the water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to the fire sprinkler;providing an electronic actuator to move the valve between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position; andproviding a conduit to carry fluid from the valve to the fire sprinkler.

[0014] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a system for electronically activating one or more fire sprinkler assembly, the system comprising:one or more a fire sprinkler,at least one automated valve adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the automated valve having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to the water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to the fire sprinkler;an electronic actuator to move the at least one valve between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position;a conduit to carry fluid from the at least one valve to the one or more fire sprinkler; andone or more fire detector, optionally one or more smoke and / or heat detector.

[0015] In a fifth aspect, the invention provides a kit comprising one or more electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly according to the second aspect and one or more fire detectors.

[0016] According to any one of the second, third or fifth aspects, the automated valve may be the automated valve of the first aspect.

[0017] In a sixth aspect, the invention provides a fire sprinkler comprising:a sprinkler body comprising a base defining a fluid passage, the fluid passage having an inlet and an outlet, the sprinkler body adapted to transition between a nonoperative configuration when there is no fluid exiting the outlet and an operative configuration when there is fluid exiting the outlet;a deflector body comprising a deflector plate, the deflector plate disposed to deflect fluid exiting from the fluid passage outlet; andan escutcheon concealing the deflector body in the non-operative configuration.

[0018] In one embodiment of the sixth aspect, a plug is inserted into the outlet and the plug is ejected by fluid exiting the outlet. According to the sixth aspect, the escutcheon may also conceal the plug in the non-operative configuration or the plug may be in the same plane or substantially in alignment with the escutcheon.

[0019] In another embodiment of the sixth aspect, the deflector body and deflector plate may protrude beyond the escutcheon in the operative configuration.

[0020] Advantageously, the fire sprinkler of the sixth aspect mounts into a ceiling hole in the non-operative configuration. The ceiling hole may be the same or similar to a ceiling hole for accommodating a down light.

[0021] The fire sprinkler of any one of the second, third, fourth or fifth aspect may be the fire sprinkler of the sixth aspect.

[0022] According to the sixth aspect, the transition from the non-operative configuration to the operative configuration may be triggered by fluid flow into the fluid passage.

[0023] The sprinkler body according to any one of the above aspects may comprise a shoulder disposed in the fluid passage which is impacted by fluid flow to transition from the non-operative configuration to the operative configuration.

[0024] According to any one of the above aspects, sprinkler body may be a pendant fire sprinkler.

[0025] According to any one of the above aspects, the escutcheon and plug may be paintable, in particular the fire sprinkler is able to receive one or more coating of paint without impeding operation of the fire sprinkler and without any additional preparation or effort for that coating.

[0026] According to any one of the above aspects, the escutcheon and plug may be oriented in a same or similar horizontal plane in the non-operative configuration.

[0027] According to any one of the above aspects, sprinkler body may be attached to or attachable to a conduit with an extensible connection, such as a spring or coil.

[0028] According to any one of the above aspects, the fire sprinkler may comprise one or more clamp to secure the extensible connection in a collapsed orientation.

[0029] According to any one of the above aspects, fire sprinkler may not have a temperature responsive element such as a glass bulb.

[0030] According to any one of the above aspects, the at least one automated valve is a flow through valve. In a flow through valve, fluid flows through the valve without a change in direction of the fluid thereby minimising friction losses. The fluid flows from a flow through inlet port to a flow through outlet port. The flow through inlet port and the flow through outlet port may be in the same plane.

[0031] According to any one of the above aspects, the valve member may transition from the water supply position to the fire sprinkler position and back to the water supply position. The transition may occur a plurality of times.

[0032] According to any one of the above aspects, the fire sprinkler assembly comprise a pipe fitting. The pipe fitting may comprise a pipe fitting body.

[0033] According to any one of the above aspects, the pipe fitting may be a T-piece (three port) pipe fitting. The T-piece (three port) pipe fitting may comprise two linearly oriented flow through ports for water supply in the water supply position and a fire sprinkler port oriented at an angle to the two linearly oriented flow through ports. The fire sprinkler port may be perpendicular to the two linearly flow-through ports. The fire sprinkler port may be in a same or different plane to the two flow through ports.

[0034] According to any one of the above aspects, the pipe fitting may be a four-port pipe fitting. The four-port pipe fitting may comprise two linearly oriented flow through ports for water supply in the water supply position, a secondary water supply port oriented at an angle to the two flow through ports and a fire sprinkler port oriented at an angle to the two flow through ports. The secondary water supply port and the fire sprinkler port may be perpendicular to the two flow through ports. The secondary water supply port may be oriented in a different plane to the two flow through ports. The secondary water supply port and the fire sprinkler port may both be in different plane to the two flow through ports. At least one of the secondary water supply port and the fire sprinkler port may be in a same plane as the two flow through ports and at an angle thereto, optionally a perpendicular angle.

[0035] According to any one of the above aspects, the automated valve comprises a cylinder valve. The cylinder valve may comprise a valve port. The valve port may be disposed in a cylinder valve member. When the automatic valve operates in a four-port pipe fitting, the electronic actuator moves the valve port from alignment with the secondary water supply port to alignment with the fire sprinkler port. When the automatic valve operates in a T-piece (three-port) pipe fitting, the electronic actuator moves the valve port from a position in which the fire sprinkler port is occluded to a position in which the valve port is aligned with the fire sprinkler port.

[0036] According to any one of the above aspects, the valve member comprises a cylinder with teeth disposed on the external surface. The teeth may be disposed circumferentially on the cylinder external surface.

[0037] According to any one of the above aspects, the valve member may comprise a motion transmission mechanism, such as an attached gear, sprocket, belt or lever. The motion transmission mechanism may be moved by the actuator.

[0038] According to any one of the above aspects, one or more sensor may be comprised to detect movement of the valve member. The one or more sensor may be used to conduct a self-test. The self-test may comprise movement of the valve member from the water supply position to the fire sprinkler position and return to the water supply position before fluid can enter the conduit. The valve member may be moved from the water supply position to the fire sprinkler position and return to the water supply position without water being discharged. This is advantageous as it satisfies the test for validation of operation,the mechanism can be tested by validating that the mechanism operates, but water is not discharged.

[0039] According to any one of the above aspects, the electronic actuator is operatively connected to one or more fire detector such as, one or more smoke detector and / or one or more heat detector. The fire detector may be adapted to be disposed in a same room as the fire sprinkler. The detector may signal the electronic actuator to move the at least one automated valve from the water supply position to the fire sprinkler position when a fire is detected. The one or more fire detector may receive input from Artificial Intelligence (Al) such as from an artificial neural network or a machine learning algorithm.

[0040] According to any one of the above aspects, the electronically activated fire sprinkler is a residential or domestic electronically activated fire sprinkler. The water supply may be a residential or domestic water supply.

[0041] According to any one of the above aspects, the electronic actuator is a motor such an electronic motor. The motor may comprise a gear box. The motor may comprise a programmable controller. The motor may be connected to the automated valve by a reversible connection. The reversible connection may be a quick disconnection connection.

[0042] According to any one of the above aspects, the motor may comprise a worm. The worm may comprise a gear in operative contact with the teeth of the cylinder gear. When the pipe fitting is a four-port pipe fitting, rotation of the worm may move the valve port from alignment with the secondary water supply port to alignment with the fire sprinkler port move. When the pipe fitting is a T-piece (three port) pipe fitting, rotation of the worm may move the valve port from a position in which the fire sprinkler port is occluded to a position in which the valve port is aligned with the fire sprinkler port, or any position in between to shut all flow.

[0043] According to any one of the above aspects, the electronic actuator may return the valve to the water supply position when a fire is no longer detected. A status of no fire detected may be indicated by artificial intelligence (Al).

[0044] According to any one of the above aspects, the sprinkler may be a connectable sprinkler suitable for connecting to a device such as, a drain tool. A suitable drain tool is that disclosed in WO2015 / 003226, the publication of PCT / AU2014 / 050119, to Shae Mete and assigned to Fire Sprinkler Technologies Pty Ltd.

[0045] According to any one of the above aspects, the fire sprinkler may be a pendant fire sprinkler or a concealed sprinkler.

[0046] According to any one of the above aspects, a valve seal assembly may be disposed at one or both of the secondary water supply port and the fire sprinkler port. The valve seal assembly may comprise a seal, a retainer and a spring providing a bias between the seal and the retainer. The seal may be a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) seal. The sprung seals may allow the cylinder to be floating, thereby reducing rotation friction and required torque.

[0047] According to any one of the above aspects, each port, the two flow through ports the secondary water supply port and the fire sprinkler port, may be a 20mm (3 / 4 inch) port such as those standard to domestic water fixtures in an Australian residence.

[0048] Further aspects and / or features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description.

[0049] According to any one of the above aspects, the conduit may be a hose, optionally a flexible hose. The hose may be dry until the electronically activated fire sprinkler is activated.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numbers refer to identical elements. The drawings are provided by way of example only, wherein:

[0051] Figure 1: shows a perspective view one embodiment of an electronically activated fire sprinkler according to the invention;

[0052] Figure 2: shows a partial phantom view of the automated valve from the electronically activated fire sprinkler of Figure 1;

[0053] Figure 3: shows a perspective view of a valve member according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0054] Figures 4 A and 4B: show perspective view of a pendant (4 A) and concealed (4B) fire sprinkler according to embodiments of the invention;

[0055] Figure 5: shows the connection between the electronic actuator and the valve according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0056] Figure 6: shows seals which may be used according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0057] Figure 7: shows the electronically activated fire sprinkler as shown in Figure 1 connected to drinking water distribution pipes;

[0058] Figure 8: is a prior art figure showing a conventional domestic fire sprinkler;

[0059] Figure 9: is a figure showing the electronically activated fire sprinkler as shown in Figure 1 connected to drinking water distribution pipes installed in a domestic residence under construction; and

[0060] Figures 10a and 10b: show a fire sprinkler according to one embodiment of the invention in non-operative configuration (Figure 10a) and when there is no fluid exiting the outlet and an operative configuration (Figure 10b) when there is fluid exiting the outlet.

[0061] Skilled addressees will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the relative dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be distorted to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0062] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an automated valve for a fire sprinkler a fire sprinkler assembly comprising the automated valve and to a fire sprinkler.

[0063] Advantageously, the present invention allows a fire sprinkler to be turned on and off as required. The fire sprinkler may be activated by a smoke and / or heat detector in the same room. Advantageously, the present invention can be used anywhere but is perfectly suited to residential occupancies.

[0064] The following advantages are provided:• novel cylinder style valve instead of a solenoid valve;• valve in is incorporated within the tee branch to the sprinkler;• very low friction loss which is very important for home sprinklers;• automatically stop water being used in the home and divert to sprinklers; and • concealed housing converts a pendant sprinkler to concealed fitment.

[0065] With respect to one embodiment, the invention, advantageously incurs low, or no extra, friction loss of the water supply. Another advantage is that water supply to plumbing fixtures may be stopped when the electronically activated fire sprinkler is activated.

[0066] Figures 1 and 2 show one embodiment of an automated valve 1400 adapted to be disposed in a water supply line 1010. Automated valve 1400 has a valve member 1410 which has a water supply position and a fire sprinkler position. In the water supply position fluid is directed to a water supply, i.e. directly through the pipe fitting 1100, in and out of flow through ports 1120.

[0067] In the fire sprinkler position, shown in the phantom view of Figure 2, fluid exits fire sprinkler port 1122 and is directed to a fire sprinkler 1200 through conduit 1700. Valve member 1410 rotates to automatically isolate drinking water to fixtures and redirect flow to sprinkler 1200.

[0068] Automated valve 1400 also comprises an input 1420 (see Figure 7) to receive a signal from one or more fire detector 1900 such as, a heat or smoke detector, to move valve member 1410 between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position;

[0069] Automated valve 1400 has a valve fluid inlet, in the form of one of the flow through ports 1120 to receive fluid from a water supply line 1010 and a valve fluid outlet, in the form of the other flow through port 1120 for egress of fluid to the water supply.

[0070] When in the fire sprinkler position, water is directed to the fire sprinkler outlet 1122 for egress of fluid to fire sprinkler 1200.

[0071] While Figure 2 provides a partial phantom view of the automated valve 1400, Figure 1 illustrates one embodiment of a fire sprinkler assembly 1000 according to the invention. The fire sprinkler assembly 1000 comprises fire sprinkler 1200, an automated valve 1400, and electronic actuator 1600 to move the valve between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position and conduit 1700.

[0072] The conduit 1700 carries fluid from automated valve 1400 to fire sprinkler 1200. As can be appreciated through Figures 1 and 7, conduit 1700 will remain dry, which eliminates any trapped water “dead leg” problem, which is known to reduce drinking waterquality in home sprinkler systems. This can be compared to the prior art, shown in Figure 8, in which a conventional home sprinkler system has permanently trapped water in pipe branch to the sprinkler.

[0073] In conventional systems, branches to sprinklers are sometimes lengthened significantly by installers, as a cost saving measure. This lengthening is not permitted. The lengthening also increases friction loss, which can reduce suppression performance below minimum requirements. The branches also trap significant volumes of dead water indefinitely, which can easily flow back into system and out of drinking taps at times when water pressure is reduced. The conduit may be provided as a permanently fitted hose assembly, eliminating this risk completely.

[0074] Turning to Figures 10a and 10b, fire sprinkler 1200 comprises sprinkler body 1202 comprising a base defining a fluid passage, the fluid passage having an inlet and an outlet, the sprinkler body 1202 adapted to transition between a non-operative configuration when there is no fluid exiting the outlet and an operative configuration when there is fluid exiting the outlet.

[0075] Fire sprinkler 1200 also comprises a plug 1220 inserted into the outlet and a deflector body comprising a deflector plate. The deflector plate is disposed to deflect fluid exiting from the fluid passage outlet.

[0076] The escutcheon 1230 may conceal the deflector body and optionally, the plug 1220 in the non-operative configuration. As shown in Figure 10a, the plug 1220 is in alignment, with the escutcheon planar surface 1232, or substantially in alignment, when the fire sprinkler 1200 is in the nonOperative configuration. The plug 1220 may be aligned or slightly recessed from the escutcheon planar surface, so that painting of the escutcheon planar surface and plug 1220 do not require any additional preparation or effort for that painting.

[0077] The plug 1220 is ejected by fluid exiting the outlet.

[0078] Advantageously, the fire sprinkler 1200 mounts into a ceiling hole in the non-operative configuration. The ceiling hole may be the same or similar to a ceiling hole for accommodating a down light.

[0079] The transition from the non-operative configuration to the operative configuration may be triggered by fluid flow into the fluid passage.

[0080] The sprinkler body 1202 according to any one of the above aspects may comprise a shoulder disposed in the fluid passage which is impacted by fluid flow to transition from the non-operative configuration to the operative configuration.

[0081] The sprinkler body 1202 may be a pendant sprinkler.

[0082] The escutcheon 1230 and plug 1220 may be paintable.

[0083] The escutcheon 1230 and plug 1220 may be oriented in a same or similar horizontal plane in the non-operative configuration.

[0084] Sprinkler 1200 may be attached to or attachable to conduit 1700 with an extensible connection 1240, such as a spring or coil.

[0085] The sprinkler 1200 may comprise one or more clamp 1250 to secure the extensible connection in a collapsed orientation.

[0086] As shown, fire sprinkler 1200 does not require a temperature responsive element such as a glass bulb.

[0087] As illustrated in Figure 1, the automated valve 1400 is a flow through valve, in which fluid flows through valve 1400 without a change in direction of the fluid thereby minimising friction losses. The fluid flows from a flow through inlet 1120a port to a flow through outlet port 1120b. The flow through inlet port 1120a and the flow through outlet port 1120b are illustrated to be in the same plane.

[0088] Fire sprinkler assembly 1000 comprises a pipe fitting 1100 having a pipe fitting body 1102.

[0089] The pipe fitting 1100 may be a T-piece (three port) pipe fitting (not shown). The T-piece (three port) pipe fitting may comprise two linearly oriented flow through ports 1120 for water supply in the water supply position and a fire sprinkler port 1122 oriented at an angle to the two linearly oriented flow through ports 1120. The fire sprinkler port 1122 may be perpendicular to the two linearly flow-through ports 1120. The fire sprinkler port 1122 may be in a same or different plane to the two flow through ports 1120.

[0090] As shown in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 4A, 4B, 5, 6, and 7, the pipe fitting 1110 may be a four-port pipe fitting comprising two linearly oriented flow through ports 1120 (1120a, 1120b) for water supply in the water supply position, a secondary water supply port 1124 oriented at an angle to the two flow through ports 1120and a fire sprinkler port 1122 oriented at an angle to the two flow through ports 1120. The secondary water supply port 1124 and the fire sprinkler port 1122 may be perpendicular to the two flow through ports 1120. The secondary water supply port 1124 may be oriented in a different plane to the two flow through ports 1120. In an embodiment not illustrated, secondary water supply port 1124 and the fire sprinkler port 1122 are both be in different plane to the two flow through ports 1120. At least one of the secondary water supply port 1124 and the fire sprinkler port 1122 may be in a same plane as the two flow through ports 1120 and at an angle thereto, optionally a perpendicular angle.

[0091] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 3, automated valve 1400 is a cylinder valve comprising a valve member 1410 comprising a valve port 1412. The valve port 1412 may be disposed in cylinder valve member 1410. When the automatic valve 1400 operates in a four-port pipe fitting, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the electronic actuator 1600 moves the valve port 1410 from alignment with the secondary water supply port 1124 to alignment with the fire sprinkler port 1122. When the automatic valve 1400 operates in a T-piece (three-port) pipe fitting, the electronic actuator 1600 moves the valve port 1410 from a position in which the fire sprinkler port 1122 is occluded to a position in which the valve port 1410 is aligned with the fire sprinkler port 1122.

[0092] As shown in Figure 3, valve member 1410 comprises a cylinder with teeth 1414 disposed on the external surface. The teeth 1414 are disposed circumferentially on the cylinder external surface.

[0093] Although not shown, valve 1400 may comprise one or more sensor 1002 (not shown) to detect movement of valve member 1410. Advantageously, the one or more sensor 1002 (not shown) may be used to conduct a self-test in which valve member 1410 is moved rapidly from the water supply position to the fire sprinkler position and returned to the water supply position before fluid can enter the conduit.

[0094] As illustrated in Figure 7, electronic actuator 1600 is operatively connected to one or more fire detector 1900 in the form of a smoke detector. In other embodiments, the fire detector 1900 may be one or one or more heat detector and / or one or more smoke detector. The fire detector 1900 may be adapted to be disposed in a same room as the fire sprinkler 1200. The fire detector 1900 may signal the electronic actuator 1600 to move the at least one automated valve 1200 from the water supply position to the fire sprinkler position when a fire is detected. The one or more fire detector 1900 may receive input fromArtificial Intelligence (Al) such as from an artificial neural network or a machine learning algorithm.

[0095] The electronically activated fire sprinkler 1200 may be a residential or domestic electronically activated fire sprinkler 1200. The water supply may be a residential or domestic water supply.

[0096] The electronic actuator 1600 may be or comprise a motor such an electronic motor. The motor may comprise a gear box. The motor may comprise a programmable controller. The motor may be connected to the automated valve 1400 by a reversible connection. The reversible connection may be a quick disconnection connection. As shown in Figures 5 and 6 motor and control box are removeable by quick disconnect and able to be replaced in service without need for plumbing work or water to be isolated.

[0097] The motor may comprise a worm 1610. The worm 1610 may comprise a gear in operative contact with the teeth 1414 of the cylinder gear in the form of the valve member 1410. When the pipe fitting 1100 is a four-port pipe fitting (not shown), rotation of the worm 1610 may move the valve port 1412 from alignment with the secondary water supply port to alignment with the fire sprinkler port. When the pipe fitting is a T-piece (three port) pipe fitting, rotation of the worm 1610 may move the valve port 1410 from a position in which the fire sprinkler port 1122 is occluded to a position in which the valve port 1410 is aligned with the fire sprinkler port 1122, or any position in between to shut all flow.

[0098] Advantageously, the worm 1610 provides the necessary geared reduction to reduce motor torque requirement. This may allow the elimination of a gear box.

[0099] While Figures 2 and 3 show a worm drive in the form of worm 1610 and teeth 1414 on valve member 1410, in other embodiments the valve member 1410 may comprise a motion transmission mechanism, such as an attached gear, sprocket, belt or lever. This motion transmission mechanism may be moved by actuator 1600.

[0100] Electronic actuator 1600 may return valve 1400 to the water supply position when a fire is no longer detected. A status of no fire detected may be indicated by artificial intelligence (Al).

[0101] Fire sprinkler 1200 may be a connectable sprinkler suitable for connecting to a device such as, a drain tool, optionally the drain tool disclosed in W02015 / 003226, thepublication of PCT / AU2014 / 050119, to Shae Mete and assigned to Fire Sprinkler Technologies Pty Ltd. A connectable sprinkler provides the facility to connect a drain tool to perform end-to-end testing and verify pressure and flow performance.

[0102] Referring to Figures 10a and 10b, the fire sprinkler 1200 pops down automatically when water is sent in a fire condition.

[0103] Fire sprinkler 1200 may be a pendant fire sprinkler, as shown in Figure 4A or a concealed sprinkler, as shown in Figure 4B. Advantageously, the concealed sprinkler version comes with a novel housing that converts a standard pendant sprinkler to a decorative and paintable concealed sprinkler.

[0104] The fire sprinkler 1200 may mount into ceiling hole exactly like or similar to a downlight when in the non-operative configuration. Advantageously, this allows painting regularly. In conventional home sprinklers, painting is a significant problem because any paint on a sprinkler or concealed cover plate would require the sprinkler to be replaced.

[0105] The invention also provides a method of manufacturing an electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly 1000 in which fire sprinkler 1200 is provided, automated valve 1400 is supplied, electronic actuator 1600 is provided and conduit 1700 is provided.

[0106] Also provided is a system 2000 for electronically activating one or more fire sprinkler assembly 1000. System 2000 comprises one or more a fire sprinkler 1200, at least one automated valve 1400, an electronic actuator 1600, a conduit 1700 to carry fluid from the at least one valve to the one or more fire sprinkler; and one or more fire detector 1900.

[0107] A kit 2100 (not shown) is also provided comprising one or more electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly 1000 and one or more fire detectors 1900.

[0108] As illustrated in Figure 6, a valve seal assembly may be disposed at one or both of the secondary water supply port 1124 and the fire sprinkler port 1122. The valve seal assembly may comprise a seal, a retainer and a spring providing a bias between the seal and the retainer. The seal may be a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) seal. The sprung seals may allow the cylinder to be floating, thereby reducing rotation friction and required torque.

[0109] Advantageously, the spring loaded seals ensure reliable sealing and reduced friction during valve operation.

[0110] According to any one of the above aspects, each port, the two flow through ports 1120a, 1120b the secondary water supply port 1124 and the fire sprinkler port 1124, may be a 20mm (3 / 4 inch) port such as those standard to domestic water fixtures in an Australian residence.[OHl] While low water pressure is always the most limiting factor in home sprinkler systems, the present invention provides for no additional change of direction, which, if present, would add friction losses and reduce pressure. This is important because a pipe loop can be maintained with “flow through” tees but still provide a branch to sprinklers without incurring losses.

[0112] Advantageously, the valve of the invention provides no restriction like traditional solenoid valves utilizing diaphragms and poppet valves forcing water to change flow direction or flow through restricted orifices. Also, the valve of the invention, when provided with one or more seal, is not susceptible to passing water like solenoid valves.

[0113] Advantageously, incorporating the feed outlet to drinking water fixtures is highly advantageous as the alternate option requires many more fittings fitted into the main distribution pipe throughout the plumbing system installation. Adding pipe fittings increases friction loss to all sprinklers in the system.

[0114] The valve 1400 can also advantageously, be programmed to perform a self test at any frequency, such as daily. The self test physically operates the valve 1400 and one or more sensor may validate correct movement. The valve member 1410 movement may be stopped before fluid is able to exit into the conduit 1700. As this is fully automated, no technicians are required. Any faults may be indicated on a Fire Detection Control and Indicating Equipment (FDCIE).

[0115] In conventional home sprinkler systems, concern always exists about use of drinking water by appliances, showers, irrigation systems etc, at the time of a fire which could affect sprinkler operation. Advantageously, valve 1400 may be programmed to automatically shut off water to all fixtures in the house, thereby diverting all water supply to fire suppression. This functionality may be adopted by codes and standards to optimise this capability.

[0116] Yet another advantage is that the suppression discharge and timing may be fully programable, optionally at a connected the Fire Indicator Panel. The discharge modes maybe determined by smoke and / or heat detection. For example, various sequences of short bursts are possible for smoulder control, through to fully latched on for flaming fire control.

[0117] Still another advantage is that the valve 1400, sprinkler 1200 and / or assembly 1000 may be approved as a single unit so cannot be altered.

[0118] In this specification, the terms “comprises”, “comprising” or similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that an apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include those elements solely, but may well include other elements not listed.

[0119] Throughout the specification the aim has been to describe the invention without limiting the invention to any one embodiment or specific collection of features. Persons skilled in the relevant art may realize variations from the specific embodiments that will nonetheless fall within the scope of the invention.TABLE OF PARTS:

Claims

CLAIMSThe Claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. An automated valve comprising:a valve member adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the valve member having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to a water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to a fire sprinkler;an actuator to move the valve member between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position;a valve fluid inlet to receive fluid from a water supply line;a valve fluid outlet for egress of fluid to the water supply; anda fire sprinkler outlet for egress of fluid to the fire sprinkler.

2. An electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly comprising:a fire sprinkler,an automated valve adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the automated valve having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to the water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to the fire sprinkler;an electronic actuator to move the valve between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position; anda conduit to carry fluid from the valve to the fire sprinkler.

3. A method of manufacturing an electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, the method comprisingproviding a fire sprinkler,supplying an automated valve adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the automated valve having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to the water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to the fire sprinkler;providing an electronic actuator to move the valve between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position; andproviding a conduit to carry fluid from the valve to the fire sprinkler.

4. A system for electronically activating one or more fire sprinkler assembly, the system comprising:one or more a fire sprinkler,at least one automated valve adapted to be disposed in a water supply line, the automated valve having a water supply position in which fluid is directed to the water supply and a fire sprinkler position in which fluid is directed to the fire sprinkler;an electronic actuator to move the at least one valve between the fire sprinkler position and the water supply position;a conduit to carry fluid from the at least one valve to the one or more fire sprinkler; andone or more fire detector, optionally one or more smoke and / or heat detector.

5. A kit comprising one or more electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 1 and one or more fire detectors.

6. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system or kit according to any one of claims 2 to 5 wherein the automated valve is the automated valve according to claim 1.

7. A fire sprinkler comprising:a sprinkler body comprising a base defining a fluid passage, the fluid passage having an inlet and an outlet, the sprinkler body adapted to transition between a nonoperative configuration when there is no fluid exiting the outlet and an operative configuration when there is fluid exiting the outlet;a deflector body comprising a deflector plate, the deflector plate disposed to deflect fluid exiting from the fluid passage outlet; andan escutcheon concealing the deflector body in the non-operative configuration.

8. The fire sprinkler according to claim 6 wherein the deflector body and deflector plate protrude beyond the escutcheon in the operative configuration.

9. The fire sprinkler according to claim 7 or claim 8 wherein a plug is inserted into the outlet and the plug is ejected by fluid exiting the outlet and optionally wherein the escutcheon also conceals the plug in the non-operative configuration.

10. The fire sprinkler according to any one of claims 6 to 8 wherein the fire sprinkler mounts into a ceiling hole in the non-operative configuration, optionally the ceiling hole is the same or similar to a ceiling hole for accommodating a down light.

11. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system or kit of any one of claims 2 to 5 wherein the fire sprinkler is the fire sprinkler of claim 7.

12. The fire sprinkler of any one of claims 7 to 9wherein the transition from the non-operative configuration to the operative configuration is triggered by fluid flow into the fluid passage.

13. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system, kit or fire sprinkler according to any one of the above claims wherein the fire sprinkler comprises a shoulder disposed in the fluid passage which is impacted by fluid flow to transition from the non-operative configuration to the operative configuration.

14. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system, kit or fire sprinkler according to any one of the above claims wherein the escutcheon and plug are paintable, in particular the fire sprinkler is able to receive one or more coating of paint without impeding its operation and without any additional preparation or effort for that coating.

15. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system, kit or fire sprinkler according to any one of the above claims wherein the sprinkler body is attached to or attachable to a conduit with an extensible connection, such as a spring or coil.

16. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system, kit or fire sprinkler according to claims 14 wherein the fire sprinkler comprises one or more clamp to secure the extensible connection in a collapsed orientation.

17. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system, kit or fire sprinkler according to any one of the above claims wherein the at least one automated valve is a flow through valve.

18. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system, kit or fire sprinkler according to any one of the above claims wherein one or more sensor is comprised to detect movement of the valve member.

19. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system, kit or fire sprinkler according to any one of the above claims wherein the electronic actuator is operatively connected to one or more fire detector such as, one or more smoke detector and / or one or more heat detector.

20. The electronically activated fire sprinkler assembly, method, system, kit or fire sprinkler according to any one of the above claims wherein the sprinkler is a connectable sprinkler suitable for connecting to a device such as, a drain tool.

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